How to Get a License for Your Behavioral Health Facility in Maryland: Steps and Requirements
Are you planning to open a detox, substance use disorder (SUD) treatment facility, or mental health facility in Maryland? Navigating the state’s complex licensing process is essential to ensure your facility meets all legal requirements and operates safely. Whether you plan to offer Detox, Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), ensuring compliance with Maryland’s Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) will help your facility meet state standards. Joint Commission or CARF accreditation is also required before submitting your application. Let Atlantic Health Strategies assist you in getting your facility accredited, licensed, and ready to serve your community in the Free State.
In Maryland, a Certificate of Need (CON) is required for certain healthcare facilities, including behavioral health services that provide residential inpatient care. The CON process is overseen by the Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC) and ensures that new healthcare facilities meet community needs and do not duplicate existing services.
- When is a CON Required? A CON is typically required for new inpatient services, such as Detox facilities. Outpatient services like PHP and IOP generally do not require a CON unless there is a significant expansion in service capacity or infrastructure.
- Maryland uses an agreement to cooperate structure with local community boards for all levels of care.
Before submitting your application for a behavioral health facility license in Maryland, you must obtain accreditation from an approved accrediting body such as The Joint Commission or CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities). Accreditation ensures that your facility meets national standards for quality care and patient safety, and it is a mandatory prerequisite for obtaining a license in Maryland.
- Accrediting Bodies: The two primary accrediting organizations recognized in Maryland for behavioral health facilities are:
- The Joint Commission: Known for its rigorous standards in healthcare quality and patient safety.
- CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities): Specializes in behavioral health and rehabilitation service accreditation.
Licensing requirements for behavioral health facilities in Maryland depend on whether you provide substance use disorder (SUD) treatment or mental health services. The licensing process is governed by COMAR, which outlines specific standards for all behavioral health facilities in the state.
Licensing for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Facilities
Substance use disorder treatment facilities in Maryland, including Detox, Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP, are licensed by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) in accordance with COMAR 10.63 regulations.
Detox Facilities: To operate a detox facility in Maryland, you must obtain a license from MDH, BHA under the regulations outlined in COMAR 10.63. Your facility must provide medically supervised care to safely manage withdrawal symptoms, with licensed medical professionals on-site. Accreditation from The Joint Commission or CARF is required before submitting your application. Compliance with BHA’s standards for safety, staffing, patient care, and facility operations is also mandatory.
Residential Treatment Centers for SUD: Facilities providing residential treatment services for substance use disorders must offer 24/7 care in a structured environment. COMAR 10.63 requires that these facilities meet state regulations regarding staffing ratios, individualized treatment plans, safety protocols, and program structure. Accreditation by The Joint Commission or CARF is required prior to submitting a licensing application.
PHP and IOP for SUD: PHP and IOP facilities for substance use disorder treatment are also licensed under COMAR 10.63. These programs must provide structured, intensive treatment services, with specific requirements for staffing, therapeutic programming, patient care, and emergency preparedness. Accreditation from The Joint Commission or CARF is required for licensure.
Licensing for Mental Health Facilities
Mental health facilities in Maryland, including Residential Treatment Centers, PHP, and IOP, are also licensed by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) under COMAR 10.63.
Maryland’s regulations differ based on the level of care provided. Below are the key service levels, along with the relevant regulatory standards:
1. 3.7 Detoxification Services
- Maryland requires that detox facilities follow stringent guidelines for the safe management of withdrawal symptoms from substances like alcohol and drugs.
- Licensing Agency: Maryland Department of Health – Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).
- Providers must comply with COMAR 10.63 regulations regarding medically managed and medically monitored detox services.
2. 3.5 Residential Treatment Programs
- Residential programs offer 24-hour care for individuals struggling with substance abuse or mental health disorders.
- Licensing Regulations: COMAR 10.47.01 outlines specific requirements for SUD residential facilities, while COMAR 10.21 governs residential mental health programs.
3. 2.5 Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
- PHP is an intensive, structured mental health or SUD treatment program that allows individuals to receive comprehensive care during the day while returning home in the evening.
- PHP facilities must adhere to the regulations set by COMAR 10.63.03.
4. 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- IOP services offer a high level of care but allow patients to continue living at home.
- Facilities must meet the guidelines under COMAR 10.63.01 for SUD services and COMAR 10.21 for mental health programs.
5. Acute Mental Health Facilities
- Acute care settings for mental health are required to meet the state’s standards for crisis stabilization and psychiatric care under COMAR 10.21.
- Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Services: Maryland Behavioral Health Administration (BHA)
- Mental Health Services: Maryland Department of Health
- Psychiatric Services: Maryland Department of Health
- Developmental Disabilities: Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)
- Foster Care: Maryland Department of Human Services
Navigating the licensing process in Maryland involves multiple steps and compliance with the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR). Atlantic Health Strategies has the expertise to guide you through every step, from understanding the requirements of COMAR 10.63 to preparing for inspections and ensuring your facility meets all standards. Let our team help you get licensed quickly and efficiently, so you can focus on providing exceptional care.
Contact Us Today!
Ready to begin your licensing journey in Maryland? Contact Atlantic Health Strategies today, and let us help you navigate the complexities of COMAR and state requirements to get your facility licensed smoothly!
